Inspiring the next generation of malaria researchers | International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Every year, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science is celebrated on 11 February to recognize the critical role women play in science and technology, and to inspire young girls to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). This day is a reminder that science thrives when diversity, innovation, and curiosity are nurtured, and it offers a chance to showcase role models who are breaking barriers and shaping the future.

At the University of Pretoria Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control (UP ISMC), women scientists are leading cutting-edge research across the full spectrum of malaria work; spanning fieldwork, laboratory studies, clinical research, chemistry, environmental and plant sciences, health promotion, public engagement and more. Their dedication advances scientific understanding and ensures that knowledge translates into real-world impact.

Medical entomology in action
Our female medical entomologists study the mosquito vectors that transmit malaria, focusing on vector surveillance, insecticide resistance, and mosquito behaviour. Their work takes them from the laboratory to the field; collecting mosquito larvae from ponds, rivers, and wetlands; adult mosquitoes in traps and nets; sometimes getting their hands dirty, and meticulously analysing specimens to understand mosquito habits, habitats and populations.

Parasite biology and drug discovery
In our Malaria Parasite Molecular Laboratory (M2PL), our female biochemists study the malaria parasite itself: its lifecycle, host preferences, and mechanisms of drug resistance. With parasite drug resistance becoming a major concern, new drugs are needed to kill malaria parasites. Our researchers are at the forefront of drug discovery, exploring new chemical compounds to overcome resistance challenges and ensure effective treatments.

Clinical and infectious disease expertise
Our women clinicians bring infectious disease research into real-world practice, training medical students and guiding them in diagnosing and treating malaria. Early diagnosis and rapid treatment are very important to ensure that malaria does not lead to someone’s death. Their work ensures that discoveries in the lab translate into tangible improvements in patient care.

Chemistry, semiochemistry, and innovative solutions
Our chemists conduct innovative research in areas such as semiochemistry, exploring how chemical signals influence mosquito attraction and avoidance. By understanding these cues, they help design targeted traps that can collect mosquitoes for vector surveillance or eliminate them to reduce transmission. This work is complemented by the development of new chemical formulations to address growing vector and parasite resistance. Alongside this, chemical engineers and mechanical engineers contribute to designing and testing innovative vector control tools and delivery systems, showing how engineering and chemistry play a critical role in modern malaria control.

Plant and soil sciences, indigenous knowledge, and health promotion
Women scientists in plant and soil sciences explore traditional and indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) to identify potential natural compounds for malaria prevention and treatment. Meanwhile, those working in malaria education and health promotion partner with collaborators in the School of Arts, and education researchers, to identify innovative and creative ways to communicate messages about malaria and protecting oneself against the deadly disease, translating scientific insights into culturally relevant and engaging public health interventions.

Teaching, mentorship, and national impact
Across all these disciplines, UP ISMC women scientists are deeply committed to teaching, mentoring, and capacity building. While not all teach undergraduate courses, most supervise postgraduate students and/or mentor postdoctoral fellows, helping shape the next generation of malariologists, entomologists, and public health experts. Very important, they ensure that their research aligns with national and provincial malaria control programmes, translating scientific evidence into policies and interventions that save lives. This dedication to learning, mentorship, and public service strengthens both the academic and practical fight against malaria.

Leadership training is another critical component of the Institute’s work. Women researchers at UP ISMC contribute to the delivery of leadership capacity-building for malaria control programmes. Through mentorship, training, and regional collaboration, this training strengthens decision-making, programme management, and cross-border cooperation; ensuring that scientific evidence is effectively translated into strong, resilient malaria control and elimination programmes.

Calling the next generation of female scientists
If you are a young girl or woman with a curiosity for science, the world of malaria research has room for you; no matter your field of interest. Whether your passion lies in biology, chemistry, environmental science, medicine, social sciences, arts, or technology, there is a way to contribute to understanding and eliminating malaria. At UP ISMC, we welcome students and early-career researchers to get involved through collaborative projects. Your ideas, creativity, and energy can make a real difference in science and public health.

This 11 February, let’s celebrate women in science and continue inspiring the next generation of malaria researchers.